Elections Will Come and Go, Nigeria Must Remain – Akume

Elections Will Come and Go, Nigeria Must Remain – Akume

 

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has appealed to religious leaders across Nigeria to use their influence to encourage peace, unity and responsible participation as the country prepares for the 2027 general elections.

 

Akume made the appeal on Wednesday at the National Ecumenical Centre in Abuja while representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the 12th Synod of the Charismatic Bishops Conference of Nigeria.

 

In a statement signed by his spokesman, Yomi Odunuga, the SGF said religious leaders have a significant responsibility to protect the nation’s democratic values and promote peaceful participation throughout the electoral process.

 

He warned against practices that could threaten peaceful elections, including vote-buying, hate speech and the exploitation of ethnic and religious sentiments. Akume also urged clerics to avoid using their pulpits to promote political tension or incitement.

 

According to him, political contests should not be allowed to divide the country, stressing that while elections are temporary, Nigeria remains permanent. He urged religious leaders to place national unity and the stability of the country above political interests.

 

Akume also described peacebuilding as an important aspect of national security, noting that religious institutions have considerable influence in mobilising citizens and resolving conflicts.

 

He encouraged the Synod to explore stronger partnerships with government in areas such as youth development, education, civic responsibility, peacebuilding and humanitarian assistance.